How itch-sensing nerves influence inflammation
Functional interrogation of sensory neurons in inflammation
This work looks at whether specific itch-sensing nerve cells change how inflammation develops in the skin and internal organs to help people with chronic inflammatory conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11190410 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you have chronic inflammation, this research studies pruriceptors — itch-sensing nerve cells — to see how they change inflammation in the skin and internal organs. The team will use genetic and viral tools in laboratory models to activate, silence, or remove these neurons and then measure immune and tissue responses. They'll identify which neuron subtypes and molecular signals drive different inflammatory states and how immune cells influence nerve activity. The goal is to find nerve-based mechanisms that could be turned into new treatment targets for chronic inflammatory diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with chronic inflammatory skin conditions or inflammatory diseases of internal organs (for example eczema, psoriasis, or inflammatory bowel disease) would be most relevant to findings and future clinical steps.
Not a fit: People with non-inflammatory conditions or those seeking an immediate clinical therapy are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reveal nerve-based targets that lead to new treatments to reduce chronic inflammation and symptoms like itch and pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous preclinical studies have shown sensory neurons can influence immune responses, but targeting itch-specific pruriceptors is a relatively new and largely preclinical area.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hill, Rose Z — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Hill, Rose Z
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.